Damerla Rama Rao Art Gallery
| Place | Rajahmundry |
|---|---|
| State | Andhra Pradesh |
| Virtual Museum | No |
| Year of Establishment | 1923 |
| Museum Type | Art / Heritage |
| National Importance Museum | Yes |
| Address | Lakshmivarapu Pet, Seshayya Metta, Rajamahendravaram, Andhra Pradesh 533101 |
| Visiting Time | 10:30 AM – 05:00 PM (Daily Closed on Fridays and Public Holidays.) |
| Entry Fee | Free Entry |
Museum Introduction
Established in 1957 (with the artist's original school dating to 1923), the gallery honors Damerla Rama Rao (1897–1925), a trailblazer who integrated Western techniques into Indian themes. Despite his short life, his work was showcased globally, including at the British Empire Exhibition in Wembley and the Canadian National Exhibition.
General Collections
The repository houses 186 of Rama Rao's works, including 34 finished oil paintings, 129 watercolours, and 26 sketchbooks. It also includes 34 paintings by other distinguished artists and works by his wife, Satyavani.
Unique Historical Collections
Pioneering Nudes: Rama Rao was among the first Indian artists to use live models for nude studies, notably a woman named Nakula, breaking contemporary orthodox barriers. Historical Recognition: Includes works like Godavari of Eastern Ghats, which was personally purchased by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Reading.
Additional Information
| Archaeological Survey of India | No |
|---|---|
| Notes | The gallery is located in a prominent building in Seshayya Metta. While it holds a multi-crore collection, recent reports from visitors and historians emphasize an urgent need for professional conservation and restoration due to environmental wear. |
| Artifacts | Siddartha Ragodayam (Masterpiece water colour); Krishna Leela (1921 oil painting); Nandi Puja (Kakatiya theme); Original pencil studies and loose sketches from his time in Ajanta and Ellora. |
| Highly Descriptive | Yes |
| Contact Details | +91 883 2461461 (Regional office) |
Artifact Gallery
